Amazing Debut! 'The Color of Home' - by Kit Tosello

 

About the book:

The life she's designing may not be the life she's meant to live

Bay Area interior designer to the rich and pretentious, Audrey Needham is already on thin ice with her impossible-to-please boss when her great-aunt Daisy asks for support as her husband descends into Alzheimer's. Now Audrey is risking the career she worked hard to build as she returns to Charity Falls, Oregon.

Her feelings toward the idyllic small town are . . . complicated. While she has many good memories of her childhood summers there, Charity Falls is also the place where her father was killed in a tragic fire at the Sugar Pine Inn thirteen years ago.

Despite Audrey's intent to avoid emotional entanglement, something should be done about the deteriorating inn. A local girl with an incarcerated father needs a friend. And handsome local do-gooder Cade Carter is coloring Audrey all shades of uncertain. The pull of home is hard to resist.

My review:

I thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel about a woman who thinks she knows what she wants out of life until she's thrown a curve ball that makes her question everything.  I loved how she went from this high-powered designer who's stressed out all the time to getting a job at the local hardware store and helping her great-aunt fix up her house and take care of her great-uncle.  She also befriends a little girl who's going through a hard time and meets an intriguing man, Cade.  As much as she loves it in the small town, it's hard because her father died there and her career is in California.  She's torn between two very different worlds.  I loved the quirky things she would think or say sometimes.  The book talk and music mentions were fun.  We also got her great-aunt's perspective of dealing with major changes in her life and her wisdom and gratefulness for the life she's had.  She also encouraged Audrey to reconnect with her faith as she'd let it drift away to a degree.   There was some great writing and life lessons along the way.   I highly recommend this book!

I received a free copy of this book from Revell.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

           The Author

1. 

   © Ely Roberts

   Kit Tosello

   Kit Tosello is an award-winning writer of small-town contemporary fiction with a big heart, as well as inspirational essays and devotionals. With her eye trained on the beauty hiding in plain sight all around us, she arranges words with tenderness, humor, and...

   Continue reading about Kit Tosello 

Another Winner! 'Fiance Finale' - Love Off Script 3 - by Angela Ruth Strong

 

About the book:

Charlie Newberg is sure about one Nicole Lemaire is the woman God wants him to marry. There's a slight problem, though—he's already left her once. The day before their wedding. To make a documentary.

But he's got a plan. The marketing firm she works for is the ideal choice for promoting his new film. Collaborating will give him the perfect chance to propose again, so he conspires with her boss to make sure she runs the campaign for the same kind of documentary Charlie left her—basically at the altar—for.

Despite Nicole's resistance, the two work well together. But Charlie's going to need more than teamwork to convince the jilted bride to give him a second chance. In fact, he might need to fall in love in a way he's never really understood.

My review:

This was such a fun book, mostly because you never knew what Charlie would say or do!  There were different twists and turns where you thought the story was going one way and then it didn't.  It was wonderful to see Charlie's sister, Meri, from the first book and catch up with her and Kai.  I haven't read book two yet but plan to soon; Charlie's friend's story sounds just as hilarious as him and his sister's.  The story does work as a stand-alone but Meri's story is not to be missed!  Both Charlie and Nicole have such growth throughout the book in different ways.  I loved that Charlie had this strong community around him who encouraged him when he needed it but also called him out on his mistakes and had real Godly wisdom about his purpose and about love.   Nicole is estranged from her dad for betraying their family and isn't sure if they'll ever reconnect.  She starts to understand the importance of community herself.  There were some good romantic scenes and also some hilarious ones.  I highly recommend this satisfying story!

I received a free copy of this book from Kregel Publications.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

Sweet Regency Romance! 'The Gentleman's Confession' - Matchmaking Mamas 3 - by Anneka R. Walker

 

About the book:

Inexperienced in love, Jemma seeks help from her best friend, Miles, unaware that he has secretly loved her for years.

Brookeside, England, 1822

Jemma Fielding has always considered herself an independent woman, but to honor her beloved grandmother’s dying wish, she makes a promise that she will marry and fall in love. To fulfill her promise, she turns to the Matchmaking Mamas Society for assistance and is paired with the charming Mr. Bentley. Though he is everything Jemma could hope for in a match, she is clueless about how to win his heart. Desperate to make a good impression, she seeks guidance from her dearest friend, Miles Jackson, a humble rector with a talent for understanding matters of the heart.

However, Miles’s secret affection for Jemma has spanned years, and teaching her to love someone else threatens to betray his own heart. Trapped by his own selfless nature, Miles fears he will never be more than a humble rector in her eyes.

Even as he gives Jemma lessons in love, Miles grapples with the challenge of convincing her that Mr. Bentley may be a perfect gentleman but he is not the perfect match for her. Will Miles’s advice in romance jeopardize their years of friendship, or will it reveal the attraction that has quietly blossomed between them, proving that this time, the Matchmaking Mamas may have made a mistake? Miles must decide if he’s brave enough to confess his feelings to Jemma before she is whisked away forever.

My review:

This was a fun Regency romance with one of my favorite tropes, the friends to lovers romance, but clean of course.  We have one very independent woman who never wanted to marry and one best friend who suddenly realizes he might lose the woman he loves for good.  To top if off, she wants him to help her fall in love with someone else!  The frustration and yearning were palpable throughout the story as you see Miles struggle to be selfless while his own heart is breaking.  Jemma, meanwhile, is also trying to be selfless as she believes Miles and her cousin are meant for each other and she doesn't want her heart broken.  Misunderstanding ensue.  I did get pretty frustrated with Miles as he should have just explained himself to her cousin.  Even though he had never courted her, much less proposed, there was an assumption on her part and everyone else's that they were going to be together so the right thing would have been to explain his intentions so she could be free.  This would have also freed Jemma and himself from one misunderstanding, anyway.  This was more of a clean read than a Christian book as there wasn't much about faith even though Miles was a vicar.   However, many vicars of that time were appointed or positions bought for second sons who wouldn't inherit.  There were a lot of sweet moments with lingering glances and some kissing.  Overall, this was a fun read with a satisfying romance!  I would recommend it if you like romance.

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher  I was not compensated for this review.   All opinions are my own.                                                                                                                                                                     .                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

Sweet Christmas Romance! 'Meddling with Mistletoe: A Red Door Inn Christmas Romance' - Prince Edward Island Dreams - by Liz Johnson

 

About the book:

The recipe for romance is simple: sweets, treats, and mistletoe meets

Whitney Garrett is preparing to enter culinary school in the spring, but first she has to sell enough homemade pies at the local Christmas markets to pay her tuition. When her oven breaks, Whitney asks Marie Sloan, proprietor of the Red Door Inn, if she can use the inn's kitchen to keep up with her orders. Marie agrees, with a catch: Whitney has to watch the three Sloan children and cook breakfasts for the Red Door in return.

The inn is busy with holiday guests--including Aretha Franklin Sloan's perpetually single nephew Daniel and Ruby, a businesswoman in town to purchase Aretha's antiques store. Intent on making a Christmas match for the two, Aretha enlists Whitney's help in her schemes. But the deeper Whitney gets, the more she realizes that Ruby is not the right woman for Daniel--and the more she thinks that she just might be his perfect match.

My review:

This was a perfect Christmas romance about a grumpy numbers guy who avoids Christmas and is forced to spend time at the Red Door Inn with creative Whitney and the three adorable children she's watching.  He gets pulled into spending time with them and eating the delicious food she prepares and realizes what he's been missing.  His heart was broken by his fiance and he's focused on nothing but work since but he starts to hope that maybe his life can have more.  I liked that Daniel isn't the usual perfect hero as he seems to be a little bit autistic and has a hard time reading social cues. His ex-fiance made him doubt himself even more and it doesn't help that Whitney fights her feelings since she's supposed to be helping match him with Ruby, the businesswoman negotiating to buy his aunt's store.  She also needs the money for tuition that Aretha agreed to pay her for helping and she wants to prove to her parents that she can finish something as she's had trouble following through on things.  Which will win out, her feelings or her goal?  Will Daniel find out about the matchmaking plot?  There's a subtle faith message as Daniel attends a rehearsal for the Christmas pageant and is reminded of God's love and presence.  The romance was very sweet and it was great to catch up with prior characters in the series and meet their children!  I highly recommend this sweet Christmas story!

I received a free kindle copy of this book from Revell.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

           The Author

1. 

   © Erin McFarland

   Liz Johnson

   Liz Johnson is the New York Times bestselling author of more than 20 novels, including Beyond the Tides, The Last Way Home, and Summer in the Spotlight, as well as the Georgia Coast Romance and Prince Edward Island Dreams series....

   Continue reading about Liz Johnson 

Wonderful Start to a New Series! 'A Thieving at Carlton House' - Of Cloaks & Daggers 1 - by Erica Vetsch

 

About the book:

The Home Office has asked Sir Bertrand Thorndike to head an investigation into stolen royal jewels. And as with everything concerning the Prince Regent, discretion is paramount.

It's the perfect chance for Bertie to step out of his brother's long shadow. Unfortunately, his superior, the Duke of Haverly, has a plan that makes him balk. In order to sell his cover, Bertie must play the part of a man looking for love, ready to reform his rakish ways.

Philippa Cashel escaped a life as one of society's best-known courtesans and now devotes her time to helping other women in dire straits. Her hope is that laboring hard enough at her charity work will allow her to feel worthy of God's forgiveness of her past. So when Sir Bertrand Thorndike approaches her about becoming an agent of the Crown, she is skeptical. Why her? She's focused on getting her school for underprivileged women up and running, not on cloak-and-dagger skullduggery.

But when two of Philippa's rescued girls become targets, Philippa risks partnering with Bertie to find the loot and stop a killer.

My review:

This was a wonderful start to a new series but also such fun to see characters from past books and get caught up on their lives.  The combination of romance and investigation and suspense in the Regency period was fun and interesting.  Bertrand and Philippa themselves were fascinating characters as  Philippa's past makes her pretty unique as the heroine of a Regency and then you have Bertrand's years of spying and his public persona, not to be confused with his real one.  I loved how tough Philippa was and how she stood up for the fallen women she was trying to help.  It was wonderful to see how Bertrand started to slowly change as he used to hold himself aloof from most people and situations but he started to care and get invested in helping.  Philippa struggled with feeling unworthy because even though she repented she still felt like so much more of a sinner than other people.  There were some good conversations both about that and her bitterness towards her father and the importance of forgiveness.  I can't wait to see where this series takes us as we get to know Philippa and Bertrand better and see how he handles his new mission and whether Philippa will join him in it!  I highly recommend this book!

I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

Enjoyable Addition to Heritage! 'Here With Me' - Home to Heritage 2 - by Mandy Boerma, Tari Farris & Susan May Warren

 

About the book:

He’s helping her stay. She’s making sure he can leave. This second chance at love in a small town will tug at your heart and make you believe in love all over again.

Love ignites in a last-chance hardware store, but will their hearts, like the failing family business, require a rescue?

She just wants a fresh start…

Inheriting her best friend’s daughter and a store on the brink of collapse, Sadie Hoover is determined to provide Lottie a stable life and keep the family business afloat. But her resolve is tested when the past walks in, wearing a tool belt and a smile that still weakens her knees.

Is he back to break her heart?

David Williams, once the love of Sadie’s life, returns to Heritage not as the missionary he was, but as a man in search of healing and purpose. Tasked with community service, he’s thrown into the daily grind of nuts and bolts, unaware that the hardware store’s troubles—and Sadie’s struggles—are more than just loose hinges and unpaid bills.

What will it cost her to fall for him again?

As they grapple with financial peril and the echoes of a love once lost, David and Sadie are forced to confront what they truly want. The store’s impending foreclosure looms over them, a testament to their joint past and the future they must shape.
If the store fails, they lose not just a legacy, but the second chance life has offered them. Can they rekindle their love while saving the heart of Heritage, or will their dreams rust away like forgotten tools?

Can love be rebuilt from the ruins of their shared history, or will the fight for survival drive the final wedge between them?

My review:

This was an enjoyable addition to the Heritage sphere of characters as we get to revisit this wonderful small town and reacquaint ourselves with past characters while getting to know Sadie, David and Lottie.  This is a second chance romance as Sadie and David dated seriously a decade ago but a misunderstanding split them up.  Now David's back and trying to figure out if God's still called him to Costa Rica or is he to follow a new plan?  Sadie's a widow, taking on her family's hardware store but realizing too late how much trouble it's in, all while raising her step-daughter and going through the process of adopting her.  That's a lot for anyone and she's used to taking care of everything herself because she can't really trust anyone to help, including God.  She'll decide the plan and then ask God to bless it.  David feels like he knows the plan but for some reason it's not coming together like it should, so he needs to try harder.  They were both very stubborn people, which was frustrating at times, as it seemed like they should have learned by now.  David kept making the same mistakes and was sure he was meant to go back to Costa Rica but hadn't asked God about it. Sadie was too scared to trust him again and then when she started to, her worst fears seemed to be realized.  What they had was a failure to communicate!  David had a lot of good people in his life giving him great advice and it shows how important it is to listen to wise counsel.  Sadie, too, had her family in her corner and the story and this town of Heritage really shows the importance of community and supporting each other.  It also showed the importance of forgiveness and following God daily and being open to whatever His plans may be for you.  The romance was satisfyingly sweet and you should enjoy this story if you like romance.  

I received a free kindle copy of this book from the authors.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

Another Enjoyable Addition to the Series! 'Firestorm' - Chasing Fire: Montana 4 - by Lisa Phillips & Susan May Warren

About the book:

He thought his life was over…and then she walked back in. Charlie Benning has always been a rescuer—first with the Last Chance County Fire and Rescue team, and now as a firefighter with the Jude County Hotshots. But this summer isn’t about saving lives—it’s about hiding his own terrible secret. A secret he’s keeping from his estranged daughter, Alexis. But fate is about to intervene. Will their secrets destroy their second chance? 

Jayne Price raised her son, Orion, on her own just fine, thank you. And now, she runs Wildlands Academy, a summer camp that teaches kids how to fight forest fires and confront their own teenage angst—kids like Alexis Price, who clearly has a chip on her shoulder about her semi-estranged, firefighter father. And Jayne has her own issues, like not wanting her only son to join the elite smoke jumping corps. It’s enough that he’s risking his life as a hotshot on the Jude County team. Then the wildfire turns its force onto the camp and suddenly the hotshots show up to help her fight it. Only problem…the last person she expects is for her former flame, Charlie Benning—the man she can’t forget—to show up working alongside her son. Rather, his son. Who he doesn’t know exists. And then Charlie discovers the secret she’s been keeping, and he’s torn between anger and the long-simmering love that refuses to die. And Jayne isn’t about to let go of the man she loves a second time. 

But if the blazing wildfire isn't enough, a dangerous and relentless killer is on the prowl in the woods…Now, with the camp cut off from the outside world and the fire closing in, it’s a race against time as Charlie, Jayne, Orion, and a team of courageous smokejumpers join forces to protect the campers against a merciless inferno and a murderer. But the biggest threat of all might be Charlie’s devastating secret that could destroy the happy ending they’ve waited for for so long.

My review:

I've been enjoying this whole series and this one was another winner!  Jayne had a strong faith but also a strong fear about her son going into smokejumping.  She and Charlie both know what it's like to make mistakes and regret them but she tried to live in the present instead of dwelling on the past.  I admired the life she carved out for herself and her determination to get where she was today.  I was a little more frustrated with Charlie as he was so stubborn about a decision he made and was continuing to make.  He was blind to his own worth and importance to people, at least at first.  It was nice to see people from previous books on Charlie's team and catch up with them.  There were some cute romantic moments and I liked the strong sense of community, from Jayne's students to the firefighters.  There was plenty of excitement, too, as a plot that's been ongoing about a killer shared the page with a gigantic fire that threatened the camp and everything else!  I would recommend this book if you like romantic suspense!  

I received this ebook free from the authors.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

Wonderfully Written Wartime Compilation! 'Something Borrowed' - by Rachel Scott McDaniel, Allison Pittman & Susie Finkbeiner

 

About the book:

In this brand-new novella collection, three renowned Christian historical fiction authors trace generations of wartime romances through a special wedding dress with love sewn into its seams.

"A Heart in Disguise" by Rachel Scott McDaniel

Clara Westlake loves her job as a seamstress in the US "Camouflage Corps," sewing suits for snipers and contributing to the war effort. But when she overhears a threat against her beloved New York City, the Great War comes too close to home--except no one believes her forewarning. She must recruit Marcus Reeves, a childhood friend searching for his purpose after suffering a devastating war injury. As they search for answers together, they may also uncover a love that lasts.

"A Letter to Eli" by Allison Pittman

Bette and Alice are lifelong friends, trying to make a good life for themselves in New York City while World War II rages. It's never far away from their thoughts--not with Alice's fiance serving at sea, in danger every minute. That's a worry Bette doesn't envy. Then a secret letter reunites her with her soldier ex-boyfriend, now wounded and back in the States. But can the innocent love these two had before the war be rekindled in the face of tragedy?

"A Daffodil in the Dress" by Susie Finkbeiner

Kate Becker and Ike Finch have worked together at his family's bookstore since Kate's husband died in the early days of the Vietnam War. She has her daughter, Eloise, to take care of and bills to pay, and this job was a godsend. A second love is not in the cards, especially not with the world still teetering on the edge of insanity. But when Ike brings little Eloise special flowers one spring day, Kate begins to look at him as more than an employer. Is falling in love again worth the risk?

My review:

This was a well-written trilogy of romances that had such sweet moments but were also balanced out with some serious ones as they dealt with three different wars and their effects on these women and their country.  Each story had such a sense of place and time and I found myself looking up some of the events and songs and details mentioned in each era to picture it better or understand it more.  I love learning while I read so it was fun to have those details to make the stories even richer.  The romances in all three stories were so sweet but there were other wonderful relationships that deserve a mention, such as two best friends and how they supported one another or a mother-daughter relationship where the mother's larger than life personality almost stole the show!  The other family members were also a lot of fun and really added to the story.  There was some intrigue in the first story as Clara and Marcus try to uncover clues to a threat Clara overhears.  There was also some fun banter in the stories and laugh-out-loud moments as well as some that brought tears to my eyes.  Different characters were on different faith journeys, some realizing they needed God's help and couldn't do it all on their own while others prayed for guidance and others received comfort in their grief and hope for tomorrow.  I liked the dress connection though I wished for more of an explanation of how each woman came to own the dress.  This was a very well done trilogy and I highly recommend it!

I received this book free from Kregel Publications.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

A Suspenseful Read! 'Hunted by a Killer' - by Laurie Winter

 

About the book:

Is she the pursuer…

Or the pursued?

When a body was found at the edge of the bayou, police detective Charlotte Reid knew the serial killer who murdered her sister was back. And if she didn’t stop him, he’d kill again. FBI special agent Austin Walsh insisted Charlotte couldn’t do it on her own. But then the murderer gave Charlotte a deadly challenge—catch him, or she’d be his next victim…

My review:

I really enjoyed this suspenseful read about a serial killer killing again and the detective and FBI agent who would stop at nothing to bring him to justice this time.  I can't imagine feeling like you'd failed your sister after not catching her killer and then being taunted by him when he decides to start up again.  Charlotte was an incredibly strong person and I admired her determination.  Austin, too, was pretty impressive as he focuses on cases like this all of the time and yet felt this case had haunted him since they weren't able to find the killer.  I found the investigation interesting but was surprised at what they had seemed to miss before.  I did like how the story kept me guessing!  I liked the hint at a romantic past between them and the possibility for more, even though they both struggled against it.  They both had a strong faith, too, but had to deal with their questions to God about why evil exists and what they can do to stop it.  I would recommend this book if you like romantic suspense!

I received a free copy of this book from the author.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

Into the Starlight - Secrets of Sweetwater Crossing 3 - by Amanda Cabot

 

About the book:

Neither of their lives has turned out the way they planned--and they certainly never planned on each other

After more than a year in Europe, Joanna Vaughn returns to Sweetwater Crossing, her dreams of becoming a concert pianist shattered. As if that wasn't enough, her husband, whom she married after a whirlwind courtship, has died. The only thing sustaining her on the journey back to Texas is the thought of her childhood home. But to Joanna's dismay, the place she once loved no longer feels like home.
 
When personal and professional crises throw his entire future into question, Dr. Burke Finley believes it's time for a change. A quick trip to Sweetwater Crossing with his almost-aunt Della Samuels turns into an extended stay to discover what happened to his uncle and her would-be husband. But the beautiful and musical Joanna makes it more than bearable.
 
As the two join forces to help Della, there is no denying the attraction felt on both sides. But ghosts from the past are coming to call--and threatening to destroy any chance at happily-ever-after.

My review:

This was a sweet story about second chances when life doesn't turn out the way you planned.  Joanna was an inspiring woman, to have gone through so much tragedy and heartbreak and still be standing and persevering through it.  Burke, too, had made what he thought was a fatal mistake in his career and then had his heart broken so leaped at the chance to leave town to escort his almost-aunt.  I liked how they both put other people before themselves, even when they were having such a hard time with grief.  They both wanted to find purpose and they found part of that in their investigation into Burke's uncle, Clive's, disappearance.  I liked the mystery element and their investigation and it ended up getting pretty suspenseful!  They both had a strong faith and I liked the musical element to the story and learning about classical music.  The romance was sweet and this book worked well as a stand-alone even though it's book three.  I would recommend this book if you like historical romance!

I received this book free from Revell.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

           The Author

1. 

   Photo by: Val Rothwell Photography

   Amanda Cabot

   Amanda Cabot is the bestselling author of After the Shadows and Against the Wind, as well as several historical and contemporary romance series, including Mesquite Springs, Cimarron Creek Trilogy, Texas Crossroads, Texas...

   Continue reading about Amanda Cabot 

Satisfying Finale! Cold Vengeance - Ryland & St. Clair 3 - by Nancy Mehl

 

About the book:

When a renowned crime podcaster vanishes without a trace, former FBI behavioral analysts turned private investigators River Ryland and Tony St. Clair are called upon to track her down. As they wade through the evidence she left behind, they unearth a startling connection--she may have discovered the existence of an unknown serial killer, and he will stop at nothing to carry out a deadly plan.

As the pair delves deeper, they soon find themselves the target of a relentless enemy determined to silence them. With their lives--and hearts--on the line, can they confront the evil that threatens them before it consumes them both?

USA Today bestselling author Nancy Mehl brings her Ryland & St. Clair series to an explosive close with a pulse-pounding story where the stakes are high and silence is deadly.

My review:

This was another fascinating investigation as River and Tony try to find a missing cold case podcaster while not sure who they can trust, including the person who hired them!  They actually look into a bunch of cases she was investigating to see if she had gotten too close to the truth and if possibly any of them could be the reason she disappeared.  Then there's the overarching threat of the serial killer who tried to kill River and Tony and who still wants to finish the job.  We get glimpses into what he's thinking throughout the story, which ratchets up the suspense.  We see the romance develop a little more between River and Tony and they grow closer as he helps her meet with and forgive her father for his abandonment.  There were also some touching moments between River and her mother as her Alzheimer's progresses and she does some healing of her own from her husband's abandonment.  Some themes done beautifully are forgiveness, how much God loves us and trusting God no matter what.  There are some really great conversations throughout the book exploring these topics.  The suspense was exciting and there were some twists.  I highly recommend this book and suggest reading the first two for more context!

I received this book free from the author.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

Fascinating Debut! ' Until Our Time Comes' - by Nicole M. Miller

 

About the book:

American horse trainer Adia Kensington is living her dream of working at the famous Janów Podlaski stables in Poland, where they breed the best Arabian horses in the world. But her plans to bring the priceless stallion Lubor to the US are derailed when the German army storms into her adopted country in 1939. Little does she know this is just the beginning of six long years of occupation that will threaten her beloved horses at every turn.

Major Bret Conway is at Janów Podlaski under the guise of a news reporter, but his true mission is intelligence gathering for the British. That and keeping Adia safe, which is harder and harder to do as she insists they must evacuate 250 horses to save them from being stolen, sold, or eaten by the invading forces. What follows will test their physical, mental, and emotional strength, as well as their faith in God, humankind, and each other.

Drawn from true events of World War II, this epic story of escape, capture, resistance, and love from debut novelist Nicole M. Miller will thunder into your heart like a herd of beautiful horses across a raging river.

My review:

It was fascinating to see all these people endured to save their beloved horses and the legacy and lineage of the Arabian line.  Adia was an amazing and brave woman to do all she did in this story, determined, altruistic and self-sacrificing.  She was always taking care of animals and orphans.  Bret, too, was incredibly brave to spy right under the noses of the Nazis and the Russians.  He also was very protective of Adia and an orphan boy, even when it made his life harder.  There was a lot of suspense in the story as danger was around every corner and part of the story had them trying to track down runaway horses while trying to evade soldiers.  There was some romance and a little bit about faith as Bret and Adia struggle to understand God's plan in the horror they're enduring.  There were also some hard scenes as it's shown what the situation was like while living in an occupied country but mostly the story was hopeful as they looked to a brighter future.  I enjoyed learning about a new aspect of WWII.  I definitely recommend this book!

I received a free copy of this book from the author.  I was not compensated for reviewing this book.  All opinions are my own.

Wonderful Southern-Infused Romance! 'Her Part to Play' - by Jenny Erlingsson

 

About the book:

When Adanne accepts a last-minute job as a makeup artist for a movie filming in her small Alabama hometown, all she wants is a steady paycheck to keep her family's legacy alive. But the money hardly seems worth having to face the actor who got her fired from her last job in Hollywood.
 
After turning his life over to God and enduring a messy breakup, John Pope is ready to start rebuilding his career. Imagine his surprise when the woman called in to cover for his usual makeup artist is a quiet but feisty newcomer on the set--and definitely not a fan.
 
Sparks of tension--and could that be attraction?--fly between them. Can these star-crossed lovers find their way to happiness? Or will the bright lights of Hollywood blind their eyes to what's right in front of them?

My review:

This was a wonderful story about an actor trying to make a fresh start and a woman who finds that he might just be a changed man from the jerk she knew before.  I liked seeing John slowly convince Adanne that he truly was changed and I loved the southern food and places that she introduces him to as she starts to trust him.  I was incredibly hungry when reading this book!  The romance was sweet and I liked the juxtaposition of Hollywood, which can be very surface, with Adanne's determination to keep her family's community center alive and her parent's legacy going.  She had deep roots and family and community around her yet felt like she had to do it all herself and didn't like asking for help.  John was struggling to make a real difference and not get caught up in the media and toxic relationships he had before.  They both needed to discover God's plan for their lives and I liked seeing their faith grow throughout the story.  This was a very satisfying romance and I highly recommend it!

I received this book free from Revell.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

           The Author

1. 

   Emilie Hendryx of EAH Creative

   Jenny Erlingsson

   Jenny Erlingsson is an author and speaker of Nigerian descent. After 12 years working in junior high and women's ministry, she moved with her family from Alabama to Iceland. When she's not running after her four kids or ministering alongside her husband, she...

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Satisfying Journey to Healing and Love! 'The Way Back' -Lights of Acadia 1- by Heidi Chiavaroli

 

About the book:

Young love means everything... until it leaves you with nothing.

The summer before her senior year of high school, Laney Jacobs and her best friend jump from a six-story beachside cliff in an attempt to impress their boyfriends. Laney rose from the water. Her friend did not.

Six years later, when Laney’s troubled mother’s memoir hits the bestseller list airing the family’s destructive secrets, Laney is forced to relive the trauma, this time in the public eye. To escape the scrutiny, she seeks shelter at her estranged grandmother’s seaside inn. But she can’t reconcile the loving woman with the heartless parent in her mother’s book. As she looks for answers, the ex-boyfriend who’d witnessed her darkest days reappears, stirring up both pain and hope.

When her mother's vindictive fans threaten her grandmother's livelihood and the lighthouse Laney has come to love, she turns to the century-old words of a young lighthouse keeper to help her find the courage to move forward. But once truths from the past come to light and old love finds new beginnings, will Laney discover that forgiveness is the only way toward true healing?

My review:

This was a fascinating story about a girl just trying to survive the grief and guilt of losing her best friend and feeling like it was her fault.  I really felt for her and how one choice changed her life so drastically.  Then you compound that by her mom writing a tell-all book when she's made her life hard enough growing up as it was.  It was interesting to see Laney forge a new path and decide to get to know her estranged grandmother.  She was actually a very brave and strong person to move across the country to see a woman she'd never even met.  She was also very real because of her struggles and learned to view everything differently as the book went on.  I liked how old and new friends, an old journal and the faith of her grandmother and the woman in the journal wove together to draw her closer to God and to healing.  There was some romance and a lot of forgiveness!  The dual storyline was also interesting as we see what it was like for a lighthouse keeper around the 1850s and a teenage one at that!  I highly recommend this satisfying emotional journey!

I received a free copy of this book from the author.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

Wonderful Start to a New Series! 'A Cameo for a Cowgirl' - Three Creek Ranch 1 - by Carolyn Miller

 

About the book:

Welcome to Three Creek Ranch, home of the James family for over a hundred years, complete with its own Western movie set. Franklin James might be a famous pro hockey player, but just because he's Cassie's older brother doesn't mean she wants to step into the limelight. She's too busy helping her dad run the ranch and managing the ranch's movie set, and negotiating with the giant egos of movie stars like Harrison Woods, who's supposed to be filming the new TV series of As The Heart Draws. And while his TV hero character might be hugely popular, Harrison's real character is anything but noble. Cassie is convinced he's hiding something, and she's determined to make sure it doesn't reflect badly on Three Creek Ranch. Can she remind him what being a true hero is all about?

My review:

This was a very sweet romance that had Cassie and Harrison starting out as annoyed by each other but slowly changed into an attraction.  Due to some misunderstandings and Harrison complaining and being a little difficult, Cassie was frustrated with him but it was nice to see him change as the book progressed.  Cassie's a Christian but was having a hard time showing kindness to him so she had some things to learn about walking the walk and he also had a lot to learn about faith and what God being like a father really meant since his was an abusive one and that's all he knew.  They both grew throughout the book, spiritually and emotionally.  There were some good conversations about faith, too, which was nice.  There was some fun banter, sweet romance and funny moments.  The setting was beautiful and it was also fun to picture the western town.  It was nice seeing such a strong female character and also seeing the male out of his element and needing some help, which also made for some funny situations.  I liked that they were both imperfect and had stuff to work on.  I can't wait to read the next in the series and also to read the hockey series that's related to this.  I highly recommend it!

I received this ebook free from the author.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

Wonderful! 'Starry Nights' - by Angela Ruth Strong, Carrie Padgett, Tabitha Bouldin & Bell Renshaw

 

About the book:

Out of Play - Angela Ruth Strong
When single mom Bex Lemaire is asked to step down as her eight-year-old daughter’s soccer coach for getting too competitive, she’s hoping the new coach will let her assist. Former child star Skylar Hayes agrees to take over the team as research for his comeback role. At first, he mistakes Bex for a raving fan but eventually realizes she's only crazy about soccer, which gives her the skills needed to train him. She's all work, while he likes to play, but together, they just might win.

Lauren's Second Chance - Carrie Padgett
Lauren’s Second Chance is a contemporary romance for readers who love sun, sand, and satisfying endings. Lauren and Mason were each other’s first loves, until life broke them apart. A decade later, when the opportunity arises to appear with Mason on a reality show, Lauren is conflicted. She needs this show for what it means to a project near to her heart. But can she keep that heart safe from the man who broke it once? Grab your shades and SPF 30 sunscreen to dive into a reality television dating show story where first love is also forever love.

Her Cowboy Champion - Tabitha Bouldin
It’s true that money can’t buy happiness. No one knows that better than Sage Rhett after her boyfriend steals her photography business and leaves her penniless. Heartbroken, faith shattered, she returns to Apple Creek–the last place she called home.
Maverick Pierce is used to people seeing him for the money attached to his family name. As a Pierce, he’s afforded anything that money can buy, but the one thing he wants can never be bought.
When Sage accepts a job working at the Pierce ranch, Maverick discovers he never stopped loving the fiery cowgirl who broke his heart when she left twelve years ago. If he wants to win her over, he’ll have to do more than flash a little money. This second chance, rags to riches, cowboy romance pits love against responsibility as Sage and Maverick struggle to overcome their history and trust God for a happily ever after.

Love in the Lyrics - Bell Renshaw
Liberty “Libby” Taylor has maxed out on space for her equine therapy business. The best way to gain the capital she needs in order to expand requires a bit of subterfuge, but that will also mean pulling one over on her new boss.
Singer and songwriter Harland Grey left LA for Winter, Montana in the hopes of finding peace from the demons of his not-so-distant past, but purchasing Melody Ranch may not hold the answers he’s looking for.
Thrown together, sparks fly between the two, but will the secrets kept between them finally be what tears them apart?

My review:

These were all wonderful stories, well written and drawing me in immediately!  Some of the stories had humor with two of the heroines, especially, being out-spoken and you were never sure what they would say next.  I liked the mix of stories about ranch life to sports to music.  The romances were very well done, with a lot of cute moments.  Some of the characters had a strong faith while others were finding their way.  Every story was very well done and it would be hard to pick my favorite.  I did not want to put it down!  I highly recommend this book!

I received a free ebook from the authors.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

Enjoyable! 'Unforgiven' - by Shelley Shepard Gray

 

About the book:

They're each other's best hope for redemption--and love

Ex-con Seth Zimmerman has spent the last three years making amends by helping the vulnerable in his former Amish community. Lately, this mission includes calling on Tabitha Yoder, whose divorce from her abusive husband has isolated her from the community. Even though she never comes out of her house to talk to him, Seth knows she watches him from the window while he chops wood, clears her driveway, and drops off food.  
 
An uneasy friendship is just starting to take hold between them when small gifts begin to appear at Tabitha's home--gifts that can only be from her ex-husband. Seth might be Tabitha's only hope at maintaining her hard-won freedom from the man whose violent outbursts had almost cost her life. But coming to her rescue might mean he ends up behind bars once again.  

My review:

I enjoyed this story about second chances and finding a new path in life.  I really felt for both Seth and Tabitha as one impulsive decision they each made changed the course of their lives and they're still dealing with the consequences.  Seth was such a great guy; I really admired him for so many reasons and especially for looking out for Tabitha when others wouldn't.  Tabitha had been so naive and it was heartbreaking that she put up with abuse for so long and that it happened in the first place.  There's a secondary love story about Seth's sister and a guy she's seeing who has some growing up to do.  Seth and Tabitha have a strong faith, especially after going through hard things.  There's some romance and suspense and a bit of action.  I would recommend this book if you like romance.

I received this book free from Revell.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

           The Author

1. 

   © The New Studio/You See Photography, Inc. www.TheNewStudio.net

   Shelley Shepard Gray

   Shelley Shepard Gray is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than 100 books, including Unforgiven. Two-time winner of the HOLT Medallion and a Carol Award finalist, Gray lives in Ohio, where she writes...

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A Good Mix of Stories! 'Bright Lights' - by Lisa Phillips, Andrea Christensen, Rebecca Reed & Gina Conroy

 

About the book:

Eight summer novels across 2 volumes.
From Christian fiction’s hottest contemporary romance authors.

Finally Home - Lisa Phillips
Ashlynn Monroe knows she has a reputation as the Ice Queen, but being the police commissioner's assistant that rep serves her just fine thank you. When her Aunt Ruby comes to visit from Last Chance County on the anniversary of Ashlynn's mom's death, neither realizes it's a week that will alter both their lives in ways they never imagined.
Fire Chief Greyson Frayer followed in his father's footsteps. Saving lives is who he is, but the burn scars he earned along the way seem to have kept him from the life he wants...until he sees a familiar face as if for the first time. Is Ashlynn the future he's been looking for?
With a romance brewing between Russ and Ruby in the background, Adelynn and Greyson discover the future they've always wanted. And the chance to finally come home.

Summer at Trillium Lake - Andrea Christenson
Privileged Athena Vassos is banished to the family’s lake property near Sunset Falls, WI, to “think about” her place in the family’s multimillion dollar business. She isn’t sure what she wants with her life now that she has finished her graduate degree.
At the rustic Trillium Lake Bible Camp, Sean Campbell is overwhelmed. He was only supposed to be the deputy director, not much more than a glorified handyman, not running the whole show.
When a devastating tornado rips through the camp, Sean and Athena need to work together despite their differences.

Loving the Rodeo Queen - Rebecca Reed
Quinn Mulroney, former rodeo queen, lost it all. Now, she’s dreaming of becoming a veterinarian while caring for her daughter. She’s never forgotten the one man she called hero.
Tiago Vargas is seeking his passion, hoping to prove himself to his exacting father. When fate brings Quinn back into his life, he sees a second chance at his first love and offers her a job.
But she’s not the same woman he rescued. She carries a secret, and if Tiago discovers it, will he still be her hero, or will her hidden life destroy her last shot at happiness?

Anxious for Love - Gina Conroy
Event planner Charlee Lovelle, with a talent for creating perfect moments, except her own, is fed up with online dating games. Australian dating coach Maxwell Adams just wants to help people find love and take his business to the next level, not play the dodgy Love Doctor. Both frustrated with the superficiality of modern relationships, Charlee and Maxwell engage in an emotional game of tug-of-war as they embark on separate paths of self-discovery. In a whirlwind of humor, heart, and unexpected connection, they navigate the complexities of romance and relationships, but will they recognize the pull towards each other or will their own inner struggles keep them apart?

My review:

There were quite a variety of stories here, something for everyone to enjoy!  I'd heard of 2 of the authors before and read a few stories by them and they did not disappoint!  It was fun to see prior characters or places mentioned that were in their other books, though all the stories worked well as stand-alones.  I enjoyed the humor and the romance.  Some had more of a faith element than others, with one barely mentioning it while a couple others wove it throughout in a natural way.  There were some great godly guys in these stories; however, one of the women frustrated me with her choices.  There was also a lot of great dating and relationship advice, too!  I recommend this book if you like romances.

I received a free kindle copy of this book from the authors.  I was not compensated for my review.  All opinions are my own.

Satisfying! 'Love on a Whim' - Cape Cod Creamery 3 - by Suzanne Woods Fisher

 

About the book:

She met the man of her dreams, married him--and then ran away

Convinced she's found the missing piece in her life, Brynn Haywood finds herself saying "I do" to a man she's known less than twenty-four hours. The dawn reveals a different truth, sending Brynn into a state of panic. In the quiet morning hours, she slips away, leaving her new husband in peaceful slumber, and flees to Cape Cod in a swirl of uncertainty and self-doubt.

As Brynn strolls along the coastline, she realizes she's been yearning for a radical change in her life. Maybe she's found the answer here, in the quaint town of Chatham. With a newfound sense of purpose and identity, Brynn takes a leap of faith and purchases a local bakery.

Yet, unbeknownst to Brynn, her twenty-four-hour husband is closing in on her whereabouts. Soon she'll be faced with a choice that will test the depths of her newfound strength and the power of love to heal and transform.

Bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher delights with this heartwarming story of love, friendship, family, and the irresistible charm of impulsive decisions.

My review:

This was a satisfying read about women and the changes they make to their lives for the better.  Even though I haven't read the first two books in this series yet, I can tell I'll love them just as much because I love books about people who make life changes when they realize they're not where they want to be.  Even though I felt like Brynn was crazy for marrying a man she just met, it was intriguing to see how this story would play out.  I liked how her friend, Dawn, and Dawn's mom, Marnie's, stories were also interwoven throughout so we see a continuation of their stories from the first book and also her cousin's from the second.  They all pull together to cater a wedding last minute while also running the local ice cream shop during the height of tourist season.  I liked how the women were in different seasons of their lives and also at different spots in their faith journeys, as we see Marnie with her strong faith praying and trying to give thanks in all circumstances, even really tough ones.  Brynn is just showing an interest in faith and Dawn still struggles with wanting to control things and needs to learn to trust God more, which really we all do.  Forgiveness is also vital to the story.  There's a little bit of romance and the setting sounds so amazing!  It felt like I was on a mini-vacation just picturing it.  There's something I really appreciate about Suzanne Woods Fisher's writing as I've enjoyed several of her books, no matter what they're about!  I highly recommend this lighter but very satisfying read!

I received this book free from Revell.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

           The Author

1. 

   © Dan Davis Photography

   Suzanne Woods Fisher

   Suzanne Woods Fisher is the award-winning, bestselling author of more than forty books, including The Sweet Life, The Secret to Happiness, and Love on a Whim, as well as many beloved contemporary romance and Amish romance series....

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Highly Recommend this Fun Read! 'Love Overboard' - by Shannon Sue Dunlap

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for Love Overboard by Shannon Sue Dunlap, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: Love Overboard
Series: Love Overboard #1
Author: Shannon Sue Dunlap
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Release Date: May 21, 2024
Genre: Christian Romcom

A snort-laughing, cruise ship romance takes readers into topsy-turvy waters 

When a group of four quirky friends retire on a never-ending round of cruises, their attire consists of more than floral shirts and gaudy skirts. Armed with walkie-talkies and battle plans, these relationship experts--who've dubbed themselves the "Shippers"--target hostess Lacey Anderson and director Jonathan King in their romantic schemes. But the young couple refuses to cooperate. They've been on the "love boat" together before, and it went down in flames. 

Boss matchmaker Emily Windsor has orchestrated multiple romantic successes, and these two upstarts certainly won't get the best of her. The chemistry between Lacey and Jonathan is obvious, but the couple rebuffs every outlandish plot and "coincidental" meeting, forcing the matchmakers to chart a new course to true love--all while inadvertently thwarting drug smugglers threatening to ruin their floating home on the ocean. 

This laugh-out-loud rom-com features loveable characters, over-the-top situations reminiscent of 1950s sitcoms, and a dash of mystery. The toe-curling romance will push the reader overboard and all in with Shannon Dunlap's new series.

My Review:

This book was so fun!  The Shippers were really funny, always getting into mischief but with such good intentions!  They had some great one-liners and some laugh-out-loud moments!  I couldn't believe the lengths they were willing to go to!  They were so sweet and quirky and seemed like a great bunch to hang out with.  I liked Lacey but was frustrated with her for how she had treated Jonathan.  She had a hard time with trust because of her father and also struggled with her faith a bit.  Jonathan and Emily both seemed to have a strong faith, with Emily encouraging both Lacey and Jonathan to trust God and pray for direction.  Forgiveness was also key.  Jonathan seemed a little too good to be true.  I absolutely loved the setting and wonder what it would be like to live on a cruise ship.  I'm really hoping it turns into a series as it looked like the Shippers have their sights set on their next target!  I highly recommend this book if you want a lighthearted, fun read that will leave you smiling.

I received this book free from the author.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | ChristianBook | Bookshop | BookBub

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About the Author

Shannon Sue Dunlap writes books with a dose of laughter and a spoonful of love. One of the greatest compliments you can give her is saying her stories made you laugh-out-loud. She loves traveling around the world, singing tunes from classic musicals, and drinking Dr. Pepper. Shannon is a die-hard fan of happy endings and believes God has designed one for each of us.

Connect with Shannon at shannonsuedunlap.com to follow her on social media and sign up for email updates.

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Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will win a signed copy of Love Overboard plus character-themed items for each matchmaker!

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight May 20, 2024 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on May 27, 2024. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to JustRead Publicity Tours Giveaway Policies.

Enter Giveaway

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

'The Elusive Truth of Lily Temple' ' by Joanna Davidson Politano

 

About the book:

In the search for the truth, the line between fact and fiction is beginning to fall out of focus

It is 1903, and Lily Temple is a beautiful silent-film actress who spins fairy tales and plays frivolous roles in front of the cine-camera. But beneath the costumes and stage makeup is a woman with a quick wit, a murky past, and a tantalizing secret.

Underground investigator to the wealthy, Peter Driscoll has been tasked with locating the legendary Briarwood Teardrop, an exquisite sapphire that has been missing for years--and which Lily happens to be wearing beneath her gown. In order to stay close to her and unravel the mystery, Peter employs the enchanting actress's help on a case.

But as they are investigating together, Peter is also investigating Lily. The closer he gets to the truth, the more danger they face. And the closer he gets to Lily, the clearer it becomes that he needs her even more than she needs him.

My review:

I had a hard time getting into this story but I stuck it out and I'm glad I did!  The mystery of who Lily is slowly unravels as Peter gets closer to the truth.  It was interesting how he got her to help him as he investigated cases and they ended up helping people and all the while he learned more about her.  He was clever and a man of faith and he showed Lily what she was missing.  She had been hurt and frustrated that wrong prevailed instead of good and turned her back on God.  Now we see her journey back.  There was some romance and a twist to the story I didn't see coming!  I would recommend it if you like fanciful elements and historical romance!

I received this book free from Revell.  I was not compensated for this review.  All opinions are my own.

           The Author

1. 

   © Robb Davidson Photography

   Joanna Davidson Politano

   Joanna Davidson Politano is the award-winning author of Lady Jayne Disappears, A Rumored Fortune, Finding Lady Enderly, The Love Note, A Midnight Dance, and The Lost Melody. She loves tales that capture the colorful,...

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